IRB Bulletins will be issued by SLSA Wales Powercraft throughout the year to help keep your Club informed on IRB issues and help you run an effective IRB Section within your Club.

IRB Bulletin 002/17 covers Proficiency Testing and how to keep your IRB Awards up to date.

Proficiency TestingSLSA Wales Powercraft has introduced proficiency testing for all qualified IRB coxswains and crew for IRB operations within SLSA Wales. Proficiency testing will keep you qualified to operate an IRB safely and competently and keep you up to date and aware of any changes in IRB techniques.

Proficiency testing consists of an annual update where any changes to IRB operations will be demonstrated – for example changes to crewing techniques or patient pickup methods. Candidates will then have to demonstrate fitness levels (run swim run and a tube rescue), driving & crew skills in an IRB and attend a resuscitation update.

Upon successful completion of a Proficiency Update to the satisfaction of SLSA Wales Powercraft you will be ‘signed off’ as competent in an IRB for the current season.

Attendance of a Proficiency Update is compulsory for all qualified IRB personnel. Proficiency Testing is only available if you are currently qualified or if your qualification has recently expired.

There is no charge for proficiency testing and latest proficiency dates for 2017 are as follows –9/11 June – St Davids – (accommodation has been booked in St Davids by the Association for all who wish to attend this event)

24 June – Aberavon 7-9 July – St Davids 16 July - Porthcawl

Individual ResponsibilitiesProficiency testing is only available for qualified coxswains and crew on the SLSA Wales Powercraft database.

SLSA Wales Powercraft will require evidence of 20 logged hours in an IRB, signed off by Club Captain/IRB Captain or similar, for the current/previous season prior to any Proficiency Update taking place.

SLSA Wales Powercraft has individual IRB log books available, if required, for you to keep an accurate log of all of your hours on the water at a nominal cost of £2.

It is an individual’s own responsibility to keep an up to date record of hours and qualifications. If you are not qualified do not use an IRB.

Remember - SLSA Wales Powercraft can also come to your beach and help your Club with IRB training if requested.